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New York City is a safe place for the entire family to vacation, but because it is such a big city, not every person on the street will be helpful and friendly. Some pickpockets and con artists target tourists because they tend to be more trusting than natives. Learn the warning signs and keep yourself out of potentially dangerous situations to create the most fun and safe environment for you and your family. While traveling in New York, trust your instincts by removing yourself from any situation that makes you feel uncomfortable.

Step 1

Place money, your cell phone, identification, credit cards and other important documents into your front pockets. If possible, separate the items into two or more pockets. Do not keep money or documents in a backpack, purse, back pocket or outside coat pocket. This way, if your backpack, purse or wallet is stolen, you still have your most important items.

Step 2

Stand near a subway attendant booth until your train comes. If you do not see an attendant booth, look for a clearly marked area with security cameras. When getting on the subway, ride as close to the front of the train as possible and find a car with the most passengers inside. Look confident and do not take out money while in the subway train or station, suggests the Manhattan Transit Authority.

Step 3

Do not stop to talk to people you do not know. If someone you don't recognize gets your attention in the street by asking you to stop, keep walking.

Step 4

Protect your belongings in large crowds, suggests New York University's Office of Public Safety. Pickpockets frequent areas where crowds gather, like street performances and lines outside of museums or Broadway shows. Stand away from the crowd and keep your hands on your belongings.

Step 5

Stay away from unpopulated side streets at night. When possible, walk only on well-lit, populated streets. Avoid shortcuts that take you through back alleys or parking lots, instead opting for safer streets with open stores and restaurants.

Tip

If you get lost, continue to appear confident and go into a store to ask for directions.

Warning

If you feel unsafe, call the police or the 24-hour Crime Victims Hotline at (212) 577-7777.